Name: Cardamom-Date Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cardamom; 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup dark brown sugar; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup chopped Medjool dates; 1 1/2 quarts coffee ice cream; 1/4 cup finely minced pistachios

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A luxurious take on classic ice cream sandwiches, this dessert brings together warm cardamom-spiced cookies, chewy dates, and bold coffee ice cream. Each bite delivers a balance of crisp edges, soft centers, and creamy richness, making it feel both comforting and sophisticated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These ice cream sandwiches stand out for their depth of flavor and texture. Aromatic spices pair beautifully with the natural sweetness of dates, while coffee ice cream adds a rich, slightly bitter contrast. The pistachio-coated edges give a subtle crunch that elevates the entire dessert. It’s an impressive yet approachable treat that feels special without being complicated.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
3/4 cup dark brown sugar
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped Medjool dates
1 1/2 quarts coffee ice cream
1/4 cup finely minced pistachios

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ground cardamom, and nutmeg until evenly combined.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the dark brown sugar and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, mixing until smooth.

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in two additions, mixing gently just until incorporated. Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped dates until evenly distributed.

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the cookies hold their shape during baking.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Scoop the dough into portions about 1 1/2 ounces each and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each. Gently flatten the tops slightly with your hand.

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through, until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are soft. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

Let the coffee ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes until slightly softened. Place a generous scoop of ice cream onto the flat side of one cookie and top with another cookie, pressing gently and twisting slightly to spread the ice cream evenly.

Roll the exposed ice cream edges in the minced pistachios. Place the assembled sandwiches on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for about 1 hour before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 ice cream sandwiches.

Preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, plus 30 minutes of chilling time.
Baking time is about 15 minutes per batch.
Total time, including assembly and freezing, is about 2 hours.

Storage/Reheating

Store the assembled ice cream sandwiches individually wrapped or in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. These are meant to be enjoyed cold and do not require reheating. For easier biting, let them sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

Can I prepare the cookies in advance?

Yes, the cookies can be baked up to two days ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to assemble.

Is coffee ice cream required?

No, you can substitute with vanilla, caramel, or even chocolate ice cream, though coffee pairs especially well with the spices.

What type of dates work best?

Medjool dates are ideal because of their soft texture and rich sweetness, but other dried dates can be used if finely chopped.

How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough before baking and avoiding overmixing helps the cookies maintain their shape.

Can I skip the pistachios?

Yes, the pistachios are optional. You can leave the edges plain or roll them in toasted coconut or chocolate sprinkles.

Can the dough be frozen?

Yes, portion the dough into balls and freeze until solid. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How soft should the ice cream be for assembly?

The ice cream should be soft enough to scoop easily but not melted. About 10 minutes at room temperature is usually perfect.

Can I make smaller sandwiches?

Yes, simply use smaller cookie portions and reduce the amount of ice cream per sandwich.

Are these suitable for warm weather events?

They can be served at gatherings, but keep them frozen until just before serving to prevent melting.

What can I use instead of cardamom?

If cardamom is unavailable, a blend of cinnamon with a small pinch of ginger can provide a similar warm spice profile.

Conclusion

Cardamom-Date Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches transform a familiar dessert into something truly memorable. With fragrant spices, chewy dates, and creamy coffee ice cream, they offer a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. Whether for entertaining or indulging at home, this recipe delivers a dessert that feels both comforting and refined.

Cardamom-Date Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Servings and timing

Storage/Reheating